Eisenhower Paroled by Doctors in Denver; Returns to Washington

Sep 26, 2012

In September 1955, President Eisenhower suffered a heart attack while visiting Denver. He was rushed to Fitzsimmons Army Hospital, where he would spend seven weeks recovering. While convalescing, he continued to carry out his executive duties from his hospital suite (which is now open to tours).

Early the following year, in February, the President and the First Lady returned to Washington, greeted at Washington National Airport (read up on your National Airport trivia) by Vice President Nixon, former President Hoover, and a cheering crowd of supporters. Below is footage of his arrival at the airport.

Ike was fully recovered and by the end of the year was reelected to a second term, crushing the Democratic candidate, Adlai Stevenson (457 to 73 electoral votes).

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